Recommended Cetirizine Dosage in Dogs The recommended dosage is 0.5 mg per pound of your dog's weight, up to 20 mg, given every 12-24 hours.

What happens if I give my dog too much Zyrtec?

Signs of a cetirizine overdose may include hyperactivity, agitation, vomiting, sleepiness, dilated pupils, diarrhea, and elevated heart rate (tachycardia). Overdoses of cetirizine products that contain pseudoephedrine, such as Zyrtec-D® may be serious.

How much 24 hour Zyrtec can I give my dog?

The standard cetirizine dosage for dogs is 1 milligram per kilogram of body weight (0.45 mg/lb) or 10–20 mg/dog every 12–24 hours. The most common side effects of cetirizine in dogs are vomiting, excessive salivation, and drowsiness.

Can I give my dog Zyrtec in the morning and Benadryl at night?

You can also give Zyrtec in the AM in combination with the Benadryl at night, 5mg per day for a small dog and 10mg for a large dog.

Is it bad to take too much Zyrtec?

Taking too much cetirizine (Zyrtec) or using more than one medication containing an antihistamine (including products used on the skin) can lead to an accidental overdose and cause serious side effects, such as seizures, hallucinations, or even death. To prevent an accidental overdose, read package labels carefully.

Zyrtec For Dogs With Allergies

What does Zyrtec do for dogs?

Cetirizine (Zyrtec®, Reactine®) is an antihistamine used to treat and prevent pruritus (itching) associated with atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and insect bite reactions in cats and dogs. Its use is in cats and dogs is 'off-label'.

How much antihistamine can I give my dog?

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): 1mg per pound (one 25mg tablet for a 25lb dog) twice daily. Cetirizine (Zyrtec) ¼ - ½ mg per pound (one 10mg tab per 30-40 lbs) twice daily. Loratadine (Claritin): ¼ mg per pound (half of a 10mg tablet per 20 lbs) once daily.

Which is better for dogs, Benadryl or Zyrtec?

Is Zyrtec good for pet allergies? Yes, Zyrtec can be a good choice for allergy relief pets. It effectively blocks histamine, preventing allergy symptoms. Plus, it typically causes less drowsiness than Benadryl.

Is Zyrtec better than Apoquel for dogs?

Zyrtec has a slower onset and may take time to build up in the dog's system before providing relief. It's not ideal for acute symptoms. Studies have shown that Zyrtec is not as effective at relieving itching and inflammation as Apoquel, so it may not provide relief for severe, uncontrolled allergy symptoms.

Which human antihistamine is best for dogs?

Antihistamines with the active ingredients of diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, cetirizine, clemastine or loratadine are usually safe for most healthy adult dogs. Hydroxyzine is another dog-safe antihistamine and one of the most effective available, but it's only available on prescription.

What is the half life of Zyrtec in dogs?

In dogs, the half-life is approximately 10-11 hours, and in horses, it is 5.8 hours.

How much Zyrtec is safe in 24 hours?

one 10 mg tablet once daily; do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. A 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.

How long does Zyrtec take to work?

Peak concentrations are reached within one hour of administration of Zyrtec tablets or syrup. The onset of its effect occurs within 20 minutes in 50% of people and an hour in 95%. Effects persist for at least 24 hours following a single dose of Zyrtec.

How many Zyrtec can I give my 70 lb dog?

Usually, I will start with 5mg Zyrtec in a small dog (under 20 pounds) once a day, and 10mg Zyrtec once a day in medium-sized dogs (who weigh 20-60 pounds), and 10 mg twice a day in larger breed dogs (60+ pounds).

What if I accidentally gave my dog two allergy pills?

If you suspect that your dog may have eaten any Benadryl, or if you think you may have accidentally given too much, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately. You could also consider calling Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

Can a dog overdose on antihistamines?

With overdose, dogs may also exhibit mydriasis, dry mucous membranes, disorientation, and fever (10). For animals exposed to an overdose of antihistamines, treatment with guaifenesin and supportive fluid therapy generally results in an excellent prognosis for recovery (15).

Does Zyrtec work for dogs itching?

Zyrtec (Cetirizine): A popular & safe antihistamine that can be effective in reducing itching and inflammation in dogs.

Can I give my dog Apoquel and Zyrtec at the same time?

Yes, you can give Zyrtec with Apoquel - they won't interact. The dog dose of Zyrtec is about 1 mg per 2 pounds of bodyweight. So, if Lily is around 60 pounds, she needs 30 mg of Zyrtec given once a day.

Is there an OTC substitute for Apoquel?

Antihistamines. Commonly used to manage mild allergy symptoms in dogs, antihistamines like diphenhydramine or cetirizine can help reduce itching and inflammation caused by allergic reactions. They are available over-the-counter but should be used under veterinary guidance to ensure proper dosage and safety.

Will Zyrtec calm my dog down?

Drowsiness is the most common side effect for dogs, but it's not as severe as the drowsiness from Benadryl or other first-generation antihistamines. The typical dose for dogs is 0.45 mg per pound of body weight. They can take it at any time of day, with or without food, usually once every 12–24 hours.

Can I give my dog Zyrtec during the day and Benadryl at night?

Can you give a dog Benadryl & Zyrtec at the same time? Both are antihistamines and giving them together may cause stronger side effects. It is NOT recommended. Give one or the other based on your dog's weight and only under the advice of your veterinarian.

What is the best medicine for dog allergies?

Treating Dog Allergies

Your doctor might recommend: Antihistamines, which block the effects of a chemical that triggers dog allergy symptoms; they're sold over the counter -- like cetirizine (Zyrtec), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin) -- or by prescription.

What is a 24 hour antihistamine for dogs?

Loratidine (Claritin®) dose: The typical dose is 0.5 mg/kg every 24 hours. Cetirizine (Zyrtec® or Reactine®) dose: The typical dose is 1 mg/kg every 24 hours. Hydroxyzine (Vistaril®) dose: The typical dose is 2-4 mg/kg every 8-12 hours.

How much antihistamine can I give my 60 lb dog?

Benadryl^® Tablets and Capsules

You can split 25 mg tablets in half to fine-tune your dog's dose. For example, one 50 mg tablet and half of a 25 mg tablet would be appropriate for a dog weighing 60 pounds.

Is Claritin or Zyrtec better for dogs?

Both Zyrtec and Claritin can be effective for dog allergies. Zyrtec may be more effective for some dogs, while Claritin may be more effective for others. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best medication for your dog.

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